Zero To Travel Podcast

Is a trip to Africa on your list? Today, I’m joined by Sasha and Megnote Lezhnev to get their list of the top 10 hidden gems in East Africa. In this episode, Sasha and Megnote talk about what it took for them to take a career break to travel full-time as a family and share practical advice for anyone wanting to do the same. You’ll learn about their connections with Africa, Sasha’s nonprofit that helps to reintegrate former child soldiers and refugees, and how they’re helping others get off the beaten path and explore hidden gems all over the world.You’ll learn about a standout Ethiopian destination that you won’t see on any other top lists, an incredible (and affordable) place to experience gorilla trekking, lively cities, towns, and local scenes that deserve to be a main attraction of your trip, and so much more!What spots are you adding to your Africa itinerary? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: The perceived challenges of full-time travel and the practical exercises that gave them the momentum to fulfill their dream How Sasha is working to reintegrate former child soldiers and refugees, and the joys and intensities of this work The realizations that Megnote came to about her career after traveling so long  How they’re turning their passion for hidden gems into a business Where you can get up close to an active volcano and experience magical geothermal landscapes A sanctuary where you can walk with white rhinos in their own territory Where you can have a less touristy and picturesque safari experience The colorful city where you can feed wild hyenas and experience local culture The lesser-known spots for tracking mountain gorillas Which islands have the most epic beaches you may ever experience (+ are less touristy) And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank, Land Rover, Uncommon Goods Learn more about Grassroots Reconciliation Group Check out more hidden gems at Off the Beaten Travel Follow Sasha on Instagram and LinkedIn Want More? Safari 101: How To Plan A World-Class African Safari (Without Going Broke) Adventure and Conservation: A 6000 km Tuk Tuk Journey Through Africa National Geographic’s Best of the World: Where to Travel in 2024 and Beyond (With Senior Editor Allyson Johnson) Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  You’re up for any challenge that comes your way, and the Land Rover Defender 110 is too. Learn more at landroverusa.com/defender.  Get 15% off your next gift from Uncommon Goods by visiting uncommongoods.com/travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kayla Ihrig, a seasoned digital nomad and author of 'How to Be a Digital Nomad', shares her inspiring journey from a conventional life to globetrotting since 2017. She delves into balancing work and travel, asserting that nomadism isn't simply glamorous but comes with real challenges. Kayla offers insights into building reliable income, transitioning into service-based entrepreneurship, and the importance of preparation before hitting the road. She discusses the concept of lifestyle deflation, learning to live on less, and selecting your travel destinations wisely.

Alastair Humphreys is a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year who decided to trade in his grand adventures for spending an entire year roaming the local map he lived on, measuring just 20km. He’s cycled around the world for four years, raced a yacht across the Atlantic, canoed 500 miles down the Yukon River, and walked the length of the Holy Kaveri River in India (just to name a few!).So why would someone like Alastair want to explore a single map, just one tiny area at a time near their home? You’d be surprised to discover the kind of impact this could have on someone. In this episode, you’ll hear about his unexpected adventures and the lessons from his experience, learn why adventure really is a mindset, and get practical advice for exploring your own local map.How did this conversation change your perspective on travel? Will you explore your local grid? Use #singlemap on social media if you do! I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: How his attitude toward adventure has changed throughout the years The notion of “flight shame” and his thoughts on traveling with a low footprint  The framework he set in his quest to slow down and what it taught him about paying attention The awakening he had about our natural environment and how it shifted his passions and perspectives (plus a lesson on making lifestyle changes) Why anything can be interesting if you’re interested Why it’s possible to have serendipitous moments locally and his biggest regret from the project  How this allowed him to connect with his home despite not liking where he lives  Why this was an exercise in mindfulness, and what sitting on a log has to do with knowing your priorities  How you can find the same fulfillment with your local map (no matter where you live) Advice on carving your own path and why he’s optimistic for the world’s future And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank, Land Rover Visit Alastair’s website Grab his new book, Local Listen to the 99% Invisible podcast  Download Seek by iNaturalist, Merlin Bird app Use #singlemap for your local adventure Want More? Travel With Intention And Be A Local Everywhere Top 5 Reasons For “Slomading” + The Benefits Of Boredom With Tim Marting From Citizen Remote Finding Meaning Through Travel w/ Dr. Christopher Daniels Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  You’re up for any challenge that comes your way, and the Land Rover Defender 110 is too. Learn more at landroverusa.com/defender.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I’m joined by Too Fly Foundation Co-Founder and Director of Brand Strategy Brandon Miller to learn how his transformative travel experiences led to his work in travel inclusion and creating a world where every student has the opportunity to travel.The Too Fly Foundation is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide passports, travel grants, and educational experiences for students in underresourced communities. In this episode, Brandon shares why it’s important not only for their students to see the world but for the world to see their students. We talk about the challenges of travel for these communities, how he went from a fun idea with friends in a bar to advocating for systemic change, and their experience on The Kelly Clarkson Show. This conversation offers valuable perspectives on supporting travel equity, fostering inclusion, and always staying curious.How can you bring awareness to travel equity and inclusion on your adventures? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: The mission and vision of Too Fly Foundation and how his own privilege inspired its creation The impact of studying abroad and how he viewed his home country differently after having those experiences The barriers to travel for underserved communities and the “Too Fly Why” that fuels their work The story of how he went from “turning up for a cause” to building a nonprofit  How he blends having a full-time career with running his foundation  Why being on The Kelly Clarkson Show and meeting Tyler Perry was an inflection point of their work How travelers can create and bring awareness to travel inclusion and equity His biggest takeaways from running an organization What he learned from a stranger’s random act of kindness and his advice for anyone traveling abroad And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank, Land Rover, Holafly Donate to Too Fly Foundation Follow Too Fly Foundation on Instagram Watch Brandon’s interview on The Kelly Clarkson Show Want More? How To Solve Big Problems, Making An Impact, Growing Up Around The World w/ Chesca Colloredo-Mansfeld from Miracle Feet World Tour for Climate Change: Hitchhiking, Biking, and Low-Carbon Travel With Megan Routbort Walking 300 Miles In Medieval Armor + Being The Change w/ Lewis Kirkbride Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  You’re up for any challenge that comes your way, and the Land Rover Defender 110 is too. Learn more at landroverusa.com/defender.  Stay connected wherever you go with Holafly’s eSIM. Get 5% off when you go to esim.holafly.com and use the promo code ZEROTOTRAVEL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mi’jan Celie Tho-Biaz is with me today to share how she’s traveled the world for the last 15 years by utilizing artist residencies. You may be surprised to discover that these opportunities aren’t just for artists in the usual sense but creatives like writers, scientists, and even psychoanalysts!Mi’Jan is a Kennedy Center Citizen Artist, an expert speaker with the U.S. Department of State, and a current Fulbright awardee. She moves between the realms of oral history, art, media, and ritual to produce large-scale cultural projects & live events.In this episode, Mi’Jan gives us the breakdown on artist and creative residencies, fellowships, and how to find these kinds of opportunities within our own niche. We also talk about her experience as a professional speaker and actionable advice on the topic, how to stay grounded at home and on the road, the story behind why traveling with her children was the best decision she’s made as a parent, and so much more.What programs or residencies could be available to you? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: Mi’Jan’s work with cultural projects and nonprofits and how that led to traveling the world  Why travel can be the best gift for your children and a lesson on having accountability and support What a burlesque dancer taught her about grounding practices (and advice for public speaking) How ritual and daily activities can help you while traveling How artist residencies can help you travel and who they’re right for (it’s broader than you think!) The four questions she asks herself every year for clear vision Pro tips for researching residencies, finding programs that work with your intentions and goals, and preparing for residency requirements  Advice for leveraging your skills and interests to travel The impact that her work in oral history has had on her life And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank, Holafly Visit Mi’Jan’s website Connect with Mi’Jan on Instagram, LinkedIn Residency resources: Artist Communities, Res Artis, TransArtists Want More? Following Inspiration Towards A Life Of Travel with Mark and Steffi (The World’s Only Chapman Stick Duo) The Vagabond’s Way: Meditations on Wanderlust, Discovery, and the Art of Travel w/ Rolf Potts The Spiritual Journey + Travel and Creativity with Karan Bajaj Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  Stay connected wherever you go with Holafly’s eSIM. Get 5% off when you go to https://esim.holafly.com/ and use the promo code ZEROTOTRAVEL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I’m joined by Neal Moore to hear about his epic 7,500-mile canoeing adventure across America, spanning 22 months, 22 states, and 22 rivers.Neal has been dubbed the “modern-day Huckleberry Finn,” and it’s no surprise why! In this episode, you’ll discover how a family tragedy turned his world upside down and eventually led him to a life of travel. You’ll learn about the surprising way he finances his travels, his experience with mission work in Africa and hiking in Ethiopia after battling cancer, why nature-based travel is so powerful, and, of course, plenty of stories and lessons from his incredible adventures.Would you go on this kind of adventure? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: Why living hand-to-mouth is part of the fun of travel The unusual way he makes money on the road How losing his mother and brother changed his life trajectory What his mission work taught him about the human experience Why returning to Africa was important for writing his memoir and why he chose not to live in the US His adventures in Egypt and hiking in Ethiopia after having cancer His journey across the United States and how a friend’s dream inspired the trip The realities and dangers involved in river travel How spending time in nature connects you to a place in a different way How he portaged his canoe 500 miles in total across the States How the trip changed his relationship with his home country and what it taught him about humanity What his failed first attempt taught him about perseverance (and his near-death experience!)  And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank, Holafly Visit Neal’s website Grab your copy of his books Want More? Legendary Blind Adventurer Erik Weihenmayer: Kayaking 277 Miles Down The Grand Canyon Adventure and Conservation: A 6000 km Tuk Tuk Journey Through Africa Hitchhiking Across The USA Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  Stay connected wherever you go with Holafly’s eSIM. Get 5% off when you go to www.esim.holafly.com and use the promo code ZEROTOTRAVEL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I’m joined by Bernie Harberts to learn how spilling a cup of coffee led him to a life of simplicity, slow travel, and being one of the only people in America to spend over 1,000 days and nights traveling by horse and mule.Bernie is an author, filmmaker, adventurer, and speaker. He prides himself on tackling big trips in small bites, which means using no-frills equipment, asking for help along the way, and not waiting until perfection to take off on a journey.In this episode, Bernie shares his experience traveling by mule, sailing around the world, and riding around Tasmania on a $10 bike. You’ll learn about his philosophy around slow travel and why it’s the most natural way to experience the world, and we have a deeper conversation about evolving with travel. Is travel essential to your personal evolution? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: Why he chose to live in a 500 sq. ft. cabin in the mountains of North Carolina  His advice for maintaining a strong relationship while traveling independently How he went from corporate sales to sailing around the world Why it’s important to allow yourself to evolve and thrive through uncertainty  The spontaneity of slow travel and how to lean on strangers without imposing How an album cover led to him traveling by mule cart across Newfoundland How he balances a slower pace of life with documenting his work in the modern world How travel can give you a stronger connection to home and why the intention behind your travel matters  Why we need to disconnect and spend more time “watching the hive” What makes Nebraska a fascinating experience And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank Visit Bernie’s website Watch The Lost Sea Expedition Want More? A Horseback Ride Across the USA Riding Across Mongolia On Horseback How To Go Sailing Around The World Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! US Bank Altitude Go Visa Signature Card get 4 X the points on eating out and 2 X the points on groceries, entertainment services, and gas or EV charge stations. Apply today at usbank.com/altitudego to get 20,000 points by spending $1,000 in your first 90 days.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travel expert Christie Hudson from Expedia reveals flight hacks based on the 2024 Air Hacks Report. She discusses ticket price fluctuations, booking in advance, pros and cons of travel platforms, and the cheapest day to book flights. The podcast also covers personal topics, flight analysis, current trends in ticket prices, psychology of booking flights, and the best time to book flights. Packing strategies and a listener's inspiring travel story are also shared.

Megan Routbort is one half of a French-American duo on a mission to tell stories of optimism about the people working to find solutions against climate change. At the time of this recording, they’re six months into their three-year voyage, visiting "climate hotspots" and exploring the world through low-carbon travel. In this episode, Megan shares why she and her partner started their climate storytelling non-profit, The Green Journey, and how she was able to blend her passions with her love of travel. We talk about her experience hitchhiking and biking across multiple countries and what it’s taught her about getting out of her comfort zone, and she shares what she considers the most powerful motivator for going on any travel adventure.You’ll hear plenty of stories from their crazy adventure through 20 European countries (so far), gain insight into the benefits of slow travel beyond fighting climate change, and be inspired to consider new ways of travel for your next adventure.What is your experience with slow travel? How can you combine your passions and travel to create change? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: Why this cause is so close to her heart, the details of their trip, and hopes for the project How they supplement their income and afford to travel long-term  Why low-carbon and slow travel needs to become mainstream Her unexpected experiences from slow travel and why sharing stories matter How they manage the logistics of their trip while traveling with a low-carbon footprint Her favorite stories of communities creating systemic change  How they participate in activism on the road and advice for taking action at home Which countries she’s found are leading the charge on climate change How she was able to get past the limiting belief that she couldn’t travel long-term And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank, Uncommon Goods Learn more about The Green Journey Follow The Green Journey on Instagram and TikTok Want More? Biking The World For Climate Change w/ Devi Lockwood Top 5 Reasons For “Slomading” + The Benefits Of Boredom With Tim Marting From Citizen Remote The Slow Travel Philosophy + Traveling As A Black Woman with Oneika Raymond Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  Get 15% off your next gift from Uncommon Goods by visiting uncommongoods.com/travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I’m joined by my friend Travis Sherry to learn how to use real estate and short-term rentals to support your travel lifestyle. Whether you’re new to the game or a real estate pro, this episode has value for everyone!Travis and his wife Heather combined their love for travel and real estate to build a thriving short-term rental business. One of their properties has even been featured in Conde Nast Traveler as one of the top 14 best beach rentals in the United States! Travis is also the founder of the travel community Extra Pack of Peanuts and the co-founder of Location Indie, a global community for people looking to travel and work from anywhere in the world.In this episode, Travis breaks down his top five strategies, from the lowest monetary investment to the highest. He’ll dispel common myths, share his favorite hacks, and we’ll explore some key mindset shifts that will completely change your perspective on real estate.What was your biggest takeaway? Which strategy will you try first? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.Premium Passport:Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1.Tune In To Learn: The misconception about real estate Travis’ story with real estate and how he ended up in North Carolina Why you shouldn’t be intimidated by real estate or more experienced investors The biggest advantage that has served Travis more than anything else The easiest way to get started and make money while you travel How to get in the game without purchasing any property How to house hack and get creative with your property or home to generate income How to earn passive income with short-term rentals The benefits of investing and the unique way he’s leveraging investment properties Travis’ top resources to dive into real estate and his best advice for getting started And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - Airbnb, US Bank, Uncommon Goods Learn about Location Indie and Extra Pack of Peanuts Listen to his short-term rental series on the Extra Pack of Peanuts podcast Travis’ resources - Zillow, Redfin, LoopNet, AirDNA, BiggerPockets  Want More? How to Get Incredible Airbnb Deals (and Save More Money) with Zach Busekrus from Sponstayneous How To Use Airbnb to Fund Your Travels (Even If You Don’t Own Anything Or Live Anywhere) The Paradise Pack Sessions: Jasper Ribbers from The Traveling Dutchman on Renting Your Home Out on Airbnb Thanks To Our Sponsors Sometimes, it just makes more sense. Book your next group stay with Airbnb! This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  Get 15% off your next gift from Uncommon Goods by visiting uncommongoods.com/travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices